California requires a C-20 contractor license for HVAC work on projects $500 or more in value, with 4 years of verified experience and a two-part exam. As of 2025, EPA 608 Type II or Universal is required for all applicants.
4 years of experience within the past 10 years as a journeyman, foreperson, or supervising employee in HVAC work. Up to 3 years may be substituted by an approved apprenticeship or formal education program.
Yes — C-20 Trade Exam (100 questions, 4 hours) plus Law and Business Exam (50 questions, 2 hours). 70% passing score.
Not required by CSLB for license renewal
Yes — reciprocity with Arizona, Louisiana, Nevada, and Utah. License holders with 5+ years in the same classification may waive the trade exam (Law and Business exam still required).
Reciprocity agreements can change. Always verify current status directly with California Contractors State License Board before relying on reciprocity for licensure.
As of January 1, 2025, CSLB strictly requires proof of EPA Section 608 Type II or Universal certification for all C-20 and C-38 applicants. All C-20/C-38 contractors must carry workers' compensation insurance — the standard sole-proprietor exemption does NOT apply. California does not license individual technicians at the state level.
EPA 608 Certification — Required in All 50 States
Regardless of California's state licensing rules, any technician who purchases, handles, or works with regulated refrigerants must hold EPA Section 608 certification. This is a federal requirement under the Clean Air Act that no state law can waive. EPA 608 Universal (covering Type I, II, and III) is the most versatile credential for most HVAC roles.
Browse EPA 608 Universal jobs in CaliforniaThe California CSLB C-20 license requires passing two separate exams: the C-20 Trade Exam (100 questions, 4 hours) and the Law and Business Exam (50 questions, 2 hours), both with a 70% passing score. The trade exam is not open-book and tests hands-on technical knowledge, while the Law and Business exam focuses on California contractor licensing law, workers' compensation requirements, and business practices.
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Last verified: 2026 · Always confirm current requirements with your state licensing board before starting work or submitting an application.
California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), Department of Consumer Affairs
Visit official board websiteApproximate first-attempt pass rate: Approximately 55–60% first-attempt pass rate for the C-20 trade exam based on CSLB data trends
